Low Carb Cheesy Mashed Potatoes

4 servings Prep: 10 m Cook: 40 m Total: 50 m Beginner
4.0/5 (1)
Low Carb Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
Sometimes us Cajuns have to watch what we eat; this is the alternative to the real mashed potatoes when on a low carb diet. Creamy cauliflower blended with butter, cream cheese, and your favorite shredded cheese makes a satisfying side dish that won’t derail your eating plan.

Ingredients

4 servings
  • 16 ounces cauliflower
  • 8 ounces shredded cheese your choice
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • optional red and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Boil cauliflower until extremely tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain water and mash with fork until smooth as possible. (I put mine in the blender)
  2. Mix in the cream cheese and butter while the cauliflower is still hot, blending until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheese until well combined. Season with red and black pepper to taste if desired.
  3. Pour into 9x9 casserole and bake about 30-40 minutes until cheese is completely melted and turning slightly golden brown on top.
  4. Let stand five minutes then serve.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my cauliflower mixture watery?

A: Make sure to drain the cauliflower very well after boiling and let it sit in the colander for a minute or two. The cauliflower needs to be extremely tender but well-drained, or excess moisture will make the dish watery instead of creamy.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Prepare the mixture and refrigerate it in the casserole dish. When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake at 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes until heated through and golden on top.

Tips and Techniques

Using a blender or food processor instead of just a fork makes a much smoother, more mashed-potato-like texture. For extra richness, add a dollop of sour cream along with the cream cheese.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • cauliflower: broccoli or a combination of cauliflower and broccoli
  • cream cheese: sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • shredded cheese: any melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend

Equipment Needed

  • blender or food processor
  • large pot for boiling
  • 9x9 casserole dish